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Can dogs eat cucumbers?

Yes, cucumbers are very well suited for dogs. They are 96% water and low in calories, making them ideal as a treat for overweight dogs. They contain vitamin K, potassium and magnesium. Feed them raw and cut into slices. Do not give bitter cucumbers, because cucurbitacins cause gastrointestinal problems.

A happy dog with a green bandana playing with cucumbers in a colorful garden under a blue sky.
Quick answer
  • Yes, dogs can eat cucumbers
  • Low in calories and refreshing
  • A perfect treat alternative for overweight dogs

Yes, dogs can eat cucumbers. Cucumbers are a low-calorie, hydrating and easily digestible fruit and vegetable snack for dogs: fat-free and about 96% water. They make an especially good alternative to calorie-rich treats for overweight dogs.

What cucumbers do for dogs

Cucumbers contain vitamin K, vitamin C and potassium. They are low in fat and calories and consist mostly of water, which helps your dog stay well hydrated, especially on hot days. Because cucumbers contain almost no sugar or starch, they also suit dogs that are overweight or have diabetes.

What to keep in mind

Do not feed pickled cucumbers: these often contain a lot of salt, vinegar or spices that are unsuitable for dogs. Use only fresh cucumbers. Cut them into small pieces so your dog does not choke.

The skin is safe for dogs. If a cucumber is very bitter, it is better to peel it, as bitter substances can irritate the stomach.

How to feed cucumbers

Cut the cucumber into slices or small pieces and offer them as a snack or training treat. You can also freeze them and serve them as a cool summer ice treat. Cucumber strips work well for chewing, too.

Nutritional values and amount

100 g of cucumber contains only about 12 kcal, 0.6 g of protein, 1.8 g of carbohydrates and 0.2 g of fat. On top of that come 147 mg of potassium, 16 µg of vitamin K and 8 mg of magnesium. The water content is 96%.

Guideline by body weight:

  • Small dog (up to 10 kg): 2 to 3 slices per day
  • Medium dog (10 to 25 kg): 4 to 6 slices per day
  • Large dog (over 25 kg): up to half a cucumber per day

Cucumbers need no preparation: wash, slice, done. Once cut, cucumbers keep for 3 to 4 days in the fridge. On hot days, freeze cucumber slices and offer them as a cooling snack.

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Why are cucumbers especially good for overweight dogs?

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are cucumbers healthy for dogs?

Yes. Cucumbers contain vitamin K, vitamin C and potassium, are low in calories and consist largely of water. They are a low-calorie, hydrating and easily digestible snack, especially for overweight animals.

Can dogs eat cucumber skin?

Yes, the skin is safe for dogs. If a cucumber is very bitter, it is better to peel it, as bitter substances can irritate the stomach.

Can dogs eat pickled cucumbers?

No. Pickled cucumbers contain a lot of salt, vinegar and often spices such as onions, which are harmful to dogs. Only feed fresh cucumbers.

How many cucumbers can a dog eat?

Cucumbers are low in calories and easy to digest, so several slices a day are no problem for most dogs. There is no strict limit on the amount, as there is with sugary fruits.

Veterinarian Mag.med.vet. Emin Jasarevic

Written by

Veterinarian Mag.med.vet. Emin Jasarevic

Veterinarian & Medical Author

Mag.med.vet. (Veterinary Medicine)Practicing VeterinarianCo-Author of the Hunde Gesundheits Bibel

Veterinarian Mag.med.vet. Emin Jasarevic creates medically accurate articles and videos on animal health topics. He is co-author of the Hunde Gesundheits Bibel and ensures professionally correct content at Hundeo.

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